Princess for a dayTeen diabetes patient, friend get some pampering

August 11, 2006|LAUREEN FAGAN Tribune Staff Writer

Two lucky Wheeler, Ind., teens were guests at Salon 301 in Mishawaka recently, where they were pampered with a "beauty day" as part of a pick-me-up for a diabetes patient at Saint Joseph's Pediatric Specialty Clinic. Brittany Mills, 15, and a 17-year-old friend, Kayla Johnson, received royal treatment as part of a day arranged through the clinic and Brittany's physician, Dr. Nancy Johnson of Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis. "I've never done anything to my hair," said Brittany, whose thick brown mane was in the capable hands of stylist Bethany Dickman. She planned to thin the hair, with a few highlights as well. Meanwhile, Lacy Potter soothed Kayla Johnson's feet with a full pedicure. "She's gonna get a manicure later," Potter said. "And she's gonna get her hair cut." But for Brittany, who struggles with her diabetes, it was a real encouragement. "It's actually kind of really hard," she said, describing how difficult it is to manage her illness when so many of her teen friends don't have to. Her least favorite part? "Giving myself shots." Salon manager Michele Ash, of South Bend, said a nurse called from the clinic, asking for a donation of a gift certificate for Brittany. "We thought it would be better to do a whole day of beauty," Ash explained. "And at her age, you just thought it would be more fun to have a friend here." It was, and Kayla -- who lives right behind Brittany -- was happy to help. "I'm always at her house," Kayla said. "I just go over there and help remind her to eat right and manage her diabetes." Brittany's been trying harder, she said. And the day was a real bright spot for her. "I've been struggling so long," she explained.